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From the architect. Tucked in the north slope of Sweden’s Mount Förberget, just beneath the crest of the mountain at a height of 730 meters above the sea, Copperhill Mountain Lodge offers extensive vistas including views of Jämtland’s mountains and lake

The lodge stretches parallel to the site’s natural topography, preserving the tree line; its plan is layered with the terrain to maximize both daylight exposure and views of the extraordinary landscape. Each suite was prefabricated offsite and lifted into the building’s heavy timber frame. Projected windows and balconies angle outward in staccato patterns across the long wood clad facades, finished in Falu Rödfärg Black, a traditional finish with origins in the copper mines of Sweden.

Two slim wings flank the south facing heart of the building and their projected thin edges lighten the mass of the building which rests upon a plinth of regional Offerdal slate. A vehicular roundabout made of the same dark stone marks the entry at the elongated principal façade. The entry is on axis with a massive stone fireplace and a view of Åreskutan, the ski mountain. All of the hotel’s primary amenities are accessed from the entry level set over underground parking.

The challenge was to make a great space in this northern world of short days and cold nights. At the heart of the lodge is the fireplace, set in a tall volume of articulated pine structure and cladding. Skylights bathe the space in natural light. The lodge looks out to the alpine world and into a warm gathering place, glowing with comfort and activity.